New CD Album Releases, 5-31-2011: Eddie Vedder, Jordan Knight, Death Cab for Cutie

Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam has a new album Ukulele Songs. It’s just that – Eddie Vedder and a ukelele. I suppose it’s mildly interesting as a novelty, but I’m not hearing much in the way of SONGS in this, but for a couple of covers. Vedder’s hero Pete Townshend did a song or two with ukelele, so what the hell. I’m all in favor of ukeleles and pretty much any unusual instrumental cover, but Vedder’s using JUST the ukelele. On one hand, he does have a strong voice which is emphasized in this, but it makes for very thin arrangement. I might care more about that if it involved more memorable songs.

Also, there’s a new record from Jordan Knight. He’s notable as the lead singer for New Kids On The Block, which in fairness have been about the longest last boy band ever or something. The samples I’m hearing here sound like utterly contrived modern commercial radio fodder, except that they absolutely lack any hooks. Maybe this would do you some nostalgic good if you’re a girl who use to get funny feelings down there when you were 10 years old and listening to NKOTB. Otherwise, I completely don’t see the point.

Here’s the complete list of this week’s major new CD album releases:
Death Cab for CutieCodes and Keys
Atlantic
Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Alternative/Indie Rock, Alternative Pop/Rock